He is expected to meet his followers in Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan on December 9 and December 10, respectively. Moreover, he will stay in Karachi from December 15 till December 19. He is also expected to meet President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Abbasi along with other government leaders, said a news release.

The visit is part of a series of visits that coincides with the commemoration of the Aga Khan IV’s Diamond Jubilee, which began on July 11 this year and will continue till July 11, 2018. The Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of his Imamat as the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community. Prince Karim acceded to the Ismaili Imamat on July 11, 1957, succeeding his grandfather, Sir Sultan Mahomed Shah Aga Khan.

The Aga Khan IV, a direct descendant of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) through his daughter Fatima and son-in-law Ali, visited a village in Skardu as well as Hunza in 2006 along with Prince Charles of Britain and the Duchess of Cornwall.

2017-12-06 The shia ishnashiry comunity has announced in Friday khutba to give a warm welcome to imam . When our Jamat will go for Dedar, Shias will do all the protection of thr assets and houses and all transportation is free from Shias of Nagar to families from Gilgit and Hunza

2017-12-06 Can u see the lights all over mountains written Ali Mowla..welcome our imam. This is all done by our scouts. The carry generators fuel with them and do rotation duty of 2 each for 6 hours in night and sit at mountains to lit up these lights. I am so happy to see the people here who are in love of Mowla and waiting to welcome him.

Upon Hazar Imam's arrival at the Nur Khan Airbase in Islamabad, he was received by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Khawaja Asif, the Minister of State for Capital Administration and Development, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, as well as the President of the Ismaili Council for Pakistan, Hafiz Sherali. Leaders of AKDN and Jamati Institutions in Pakistan were also present at the airport to receive Hazar Imam.

Mawlana Hazar Imam and Princess Zahra were welcomed by over 200 junior scouts and guides enthusiastically waving national, Ismaili, and Diamond Jubilee flags. They were then presented with bouquets by young Ismaili students from Sargodha before departing the airbase.

Mawlana Hazar Imam and Princess Zahra are visiting at the invitation of the Government of Pakistan on the occasion of the commemoration of the Diamond Jubilee. While on this historic visit, Mawlana Hazar Imam is expected to grace the Jamat across the country with darbars and mulaqats.

President Mamnoon Hussain Friday said that Prince Karim Aga Khan was rendering invaluable services for global peace and stability, brotherhood, tolerance as well as for the welfare of humanity in different parts of the world, including Pakistan. The president said this while talking to Prince Karim Aga Khan, who along with his daughter Princess Zahra Aga Khan and a delegation called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr here.

On his arrival at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Mamnoon warmly received Prince Karim Aga Khan that followed the guard of honour. Minister for CADD Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and senior officials were also present in the meeting.

The president said that Aga Khan Foundation was rendering commendable services in the fields of education, health and for rural development in various parts of the country.
He asked Prince Karim Aga Khan to extend the development activities of AKDN in other parts of the country apart from Sindh and Northern Areas which was agreed to by the visiting dignitary.

President Mamnoon appreciated the services of Aga Khan Foundation during the 2005 earthquake and noted that his Grandfather Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah Aga Khan was a very close companion of the Founder of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who rendered valuable services during the freedom movement. While thanking the president for warm welcome, Prince Karim Aga Khan said that he was thankful to the people and Government of Pakistan for the warm hospitality.

He apprised the president about future development projects of Aga Khan Foundation. He said that his institution had devised a comprehensive strategy to improve the standard of education in Pakistan adding that in that regard Aga Khan Medical University would be transformed into a full-fledged university in which more academic departments would be established in line with the current requirements.—APP

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has lauded the role of Prince Karim Aga Khan for promotion of peace and interfaith harmony and his valuable contribution towards social, economic and cultural development of Pakistan.

He expressed these views on Friday at the Prime Minister House when Aga Khan called on him. Prince Karim Aga Khan was accompanied by his daughter Princess Zahra Aga Khan as well as senior representatives of Aga Khan’s welfare organisations including Hafiz Sherali, President Council for Pakistan, Sultan Allana, ambassador Arif Lalani, head of the diplomatic department, seat of the Ismaili Imamat, Firoz Rasul, President Aga Khan University, and Iqbal Walji, Chairman National Committee Aga Khan Foundation, Pakistan.

Warmly welcoming the Prince and members of the visiting delegation, the prime minister appreciated Aga Khan’s role for promoting peace and interfaith harmony among Muslims, and his valuable contributions towards social, economic and cultural development of the country.

He re-affirmed his support for the AKDN institutions in furthering their development goals. The prime minister also presented a special first day cover consisting of six stamps illustrating the contribution of AKDN in the country. The stamps commemorate the diamond jubilee -- or 60 years -- of the Imamat of Aga Khan.

The prince reiterated his longstanding commitment to development goals and improving the quality of life of the people of Pakistan. He thanked the government for its support towards the work of the AKDN. He offered to build a university and a nursing college in collaboration with the government of Pakistan in the capital city of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, outgoing ambassador of Turkey Sadik Babur Girgin paid farewell call on Prime Minister Abbasi at the PMO. The prime minister commended the ambassador for his efforts and contributions towards further strengthening the existing cordial and brotherly relations between the two countries.

The prime minister conveyed his good wishes for the Turkish leadership as well as for progress and prosperity of the people of Turkey. He wished the ambassador success in his future endeavours. Ambassador Girgin thanked the prime minister for the warmth and hospitality extended to him during his stay in Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abbasi directed the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) to chalk out a comprehensive graduation strategy to enable and equip its beneficiaries earn their own livelihood.

Chairing a meeting on the BISP here at the PM Office, the prime minister approved a proposal for setting up an endowment fund for the BISP to ensure fiscal continuity in lean budgetary periods and said it would act as a catalyst in generating income for supporting various development schemes on the fund structure.

The meeting was attended by BISP Chairperson Marvi Memon, Secretary to Prime Minister Fawad Hasan Fawad, Secretary BISP Omar Hamid Khan and senior officers of the BISP. The prime minister was briefed about various initiatives being undertaken under the umbrella of the BISP including unconditional cash transfer programme and Waseela-e-Taleem programme that has so far benefited 5.6 million families and 1.8 million children respectively.

The prime minister was informed that the international community, donors and developmental partners including the ADB, WB and DFID have reposed confidence in transparency and effectiveness of the programme in reaching out to the poorest of the poor and helping them break shackles of poverty.

The meeting was informed that after successful completion of pilot phase in four districts and door-to-door survey in 10 districts, the National Socio-economic Registry (NSER) survey would be rolled out in the remaining districts of the country in February 2018 and would be completed by May 2018.

The premier also interacted with students from Balochistan Residential College Loralai at the PM Office as part of the initiative to invite young leaders to the highest offices and brief them about the functioning of the government.

The prime minister inquired the students about their education and also answered their questions. Abbasi said the government was focusing on development of Balochistan and socio-economic uplift of its people. The students thanked the prime minister for providing them an opportunity to visit the PM Office for an interaction.

As part of his official visit to Pakistan, Prince Karim Aga Khan is scheduled to meet his followers in Karachi, Islamabad and Gilgit-Baltistan as well as other parts of the country to mark his Diamond Jubilee Celebrations - 60th anniversary of his Imamat of the Ismaili community

ISLAMABAD – President Mamnoon Hussain said that Prince Karim Aga Khan was rendering invaluable services for global peace and stability, brotherhood, tolerance as well as for the welfare of humanity in different parts of the world, including Pakistan.

The president said this while talking to Prince Karim Aga Khan, who along with his daughter Princess Zahra Aga Khan and a delegation called on him at the President House here on Friday.

The spiritual leader of Ismailia community Prince Karim Aga Khan has arrived in Islamabad on a state visit at the invitation of the Government of Pakistan.

Ensuring development in country’s various sectors, Prince Karim Aga Khan said that efforts in health, education and rural development sectors will be further intensified in Pakistan. He also vowed to launch programs dedicated to alleviate poverty in underdeveloped areas.

Warmly welcoming, the prime minister appreciated his role in promoting peace and interfaith harmony among Muslims and his valuable contributions toward the social, economic and cultural development of the country.

The prime minister also presented a special First Day Cover consisting of six stamps illustrating the contribution of the AKDN in the country. The stamps commemorate the Diamond Jubilee – or 60 years – of the Imamat of His Highness the Aga Khan.

Prince Karim Aga Khan reiterated his longstanding commitment to the development goals and improving the quality of life of the people of Pakistan.

Arriving upon the President’s invitation, Prince Karim Aga Khan flew to the country’s capital on Thursday where he was received by Minister for Foreign Affairs Khawaja Mohammad Asif, Minister for Capital Administration and Development Division (CADD) Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and Mayor of Islamabad Sheikh Anser Aziz.

As part of his official visit to Pakistan, Prince Karim Aga Khan is scheduled to meet his followers in Karachi, Islamabad and Gilgit-Baltistan as well as other parts of the country to mark his Diamond Jubilee Celebrations – 60th anniversary of his Imamat of the Ismaili community.

Finally, the big day arrives; Chitralis eager to welcome The Aga Khan
December 9, 2017

Chitral .. The grand occasion of the visit of their spiritual leader Prince Karim Aga Khan has finally arrived for the Ismaili community of Chitral which constitute about one third of the entire population of the district. Volunteers from the community have been working day and night for weeks on, to clean the area and upgrade roads and prepare two grand ‘deedar gahs’ (congregation areas) at Booni and Garam chashma, which will hold thousands of disciples of the Imam of the Ismailia community. Ismailis from all over Chitral with their women folk and children have converged on Booni and Garam Chashma the two venues where the Ag Khan would address his followers. The scathing cold has not deterred the faithful to brave the weather and catch a glimpse of their Imam.

Elsewhere in Chitral, the Sunni Muslims which is the only other sect up here have heartily welcomed the visit of the Aga Khan. Everyone from the MNA to the District Nazim to MPAs to political leaders have issued welcome statements on the occasion. The deputy Commissioner has ordered closure of educational institutions on the occasion to facilitate students wanting to join the congregation at Booni and Garam Chashma. .. CN report, 09 Dec 2017

All is set for the daylong visit of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, the 49th Imam of Shia Ismaili Muslims, to Chitral on Saturday.
The Imam will land in Chitral early in the morning where he would be received by elected representatives and government officers. He is expected to hold a brief meeting at the airport with different representatives before leaving for Booni to meet his followers there.

People from all sub-valleys of Upper Chitral have thronged to areas near the Diadargah set up at the riverbed near Booni. It is expected that the His Highness will give Didar to 80,000 to 90,000 Ismailis here. The pilgrims will start entering the Didargah early Saturday and the gates will be closed two hours before the arrival of the His Highness. People who have already reached the area are staying in Booni, Kuragh, Awi, Meragram No 1 etc. The remaining, especially from nearby areas such as Sonoghur, Parwak, Mastuj, Chuinj, Chapali, Brep and Mulkhow, will be arriving by early on Saturday. Al those coming from the Mastuj side will alight from their vehicles in front of the Didargah and cross the new bridges over the river to reach the venue.
After meeting his followers, the Aga Khan will fly to Garam Chashma to give Didar to the Ismailis of lower Chitral. The venue for the congregation has been prepared on a private property owned by Shahzada Taimoor Khisraw. Sources told ChitralToday that about 50,000 to 60,000 followers of the Aga Khan were expected to have a glimpse of their Imam at this place.
Chitral Scouts and police personnel will be deployed on the security of both the Didargahs. Extra security personnel have also arrived in Chitral to help the local police and Scouts.

When contacted by ChitralToday, Shahzada Khisraw said it would be for the third time that the His Highness would be meeting his followers at the Didargah set up on his land, including agricultural fields. He said not only the Ismailis but also the Sunni community was ready to welcome the Aga Khan. He said irrespective of their sectarian affiliations, people of Chitral were an example for others for their peaceful co-existence, tolerance and harmony, the true spirits of Islam. Divisions on the basis of faith is not only against the teachings of Islam but also dangerous for the integrity of the country, he observed.

He said the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) had played a leading role in the socio-economic progress of Chitral. Education and healthcare are crucial for the progress of any nation and today we can see Chitral being one of the few advanced districts in terms of education. He said it was because of the Aga Khan’s vision that Hunza had now attained over 97pc literacy rate. The availability of electricity in remote villages of Chitral is also the result of the AKDN’s initiatives, he added.

Afzal Ali, a noted Ismaili figure of Booni, told ChitralToday that whenever the His Highness visited Chitral in the past the Sunni community remained in the fore front in helping the Ismailis in making arrangements and welcoming the dignitary. He said it was not unusual as even in one family there were brothers and sisters belonging to both schools of thought.

Qazi Ghulam Rabbani, another prominent personality of Booni belonging to the Sunni community, said people of Chitral had lived in peace and harmony for centuries.

Whatever happened in 1982 we (Sunni and Ismaili communities) are remorseful about it but such incidents will never dent our resolve to maintain the exemplary peace of our area. The Ismail community has also been in the front in extending a helping hand to us whenever we need any.

Mr Rabbani said the word had become a global village and we want fragrance of communal harmony and peace of Chitral spread out and reach the entire world.

It may be noted that the visit of the His Highness has inspired unprecedented sectarian harmony, brotherhood and unity in Chitral besides promoting the spirit of volunteerism among the locals.

Spiritual leader of the Ismaili community Prince Karim Aga Khan on Saturday visited the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Chitral district and addressed his thousands of followers, who had gathered at Garam Chashma and Boni areas.

Prince Karim, who arrived in Pakistan on Thursday and earlier held meetings with President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, was scheduled to reach the mountainous valley from Islamabad on his special C-130 plane. However, due to bad weather, the Aga Khan arrived in the valley three hours late on the helicopter of the Aga Khan Foundation.

Special arrangements were made at Garam Chashma and Boni to accommodate respectively 60 thousand and 80 thousand people, who had gather from different areas to see their 49th Imam.

Addressing his followers, Prince Karim laid emphasis on education and said peace and law and order were necessary for progress of the region. “Islam is the religion of peace and love, and we should give priority to these aspects over all other things,” he added.

At the airport, the Chitral nazim briefed Prince Karim on the area’s issues and highlighted the importance of establishing both air and road links between Chitral and Khorugh area of Tajikistan. Shah said these arrangements were very important for progress of the area.

Prince Karim said Chitral held a special place in his heart and that he was well aware of the issues of the area. The prince later stayed the night at the valley.

Warmly welcoming spiritual leader of Ismaili Shiite Muslims, the prime minister appreciated his role for promoting peace and interfaith harmony among Muslims, and his valuable contributions towards social, economic and cultural development of the country.
Read More: Pursuing Education is Islamic Legacy, said Aga Khan

PM Abbasi also presented a special First Day Cover consisting of six stamps illustrating the contribution of the Aga Khan Development Network in the country. The stamps commemorate the Diamond Jubilee – or 60 years – of the Imamat of His Highness the Aga Khan.

Prince Karim Aga Khan reiterated his longstanding commitment to the development goals and improving the quality of life of the people of Pakistan.

He thanked the government for its support towards the work of the AKDN. He also offered to build a university and a nursing college in collaboration with the federal government in the capital city of Pakistan.

CHITRAL: Prince Karim Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, on Saturday said that peace was a must for the development of the region.

He was addressing his followers in Booni and Garum Chashma. In his address, Aga Khan stressed the importance of education and linked peace to the development of the region. He said that Islam was the religion of peace and its followers must follow the instructions of Islam for the progress and prosperity of the entire Muslim world.

Around 60,000 followers had gathered at Garum Chasma and 80,000 in Booni to listen to their spiritual leader. The spiritual leader of Ismaili community said that he had a strong bond with Chitral and was aware of the problems of the area.

Earlier, Member National Assembly Shahzada Iftikharuddin, District Nazim Maghfirat Shah and government officials received Prince Karim Aga Khan at the Chitral Airport. He was scheduled to reach Chitral on C-130. However, his arrival was delayed by three hours due to inclement weather and he reached the district via helicopter.

The receiving delegation remarked that the visit of Hazar Imam was a blessing and a historical moment for the people of Chitral. They further applauded the services of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), for its longstanding commitment to the region and the significant role it has played in its development. Over several decades, AKDN agencies have invested in the areas of education, health, emergency response and disaster preparedness, infrastructure and rural development in Chitral.

Mawlana Hazar Imam thanked the Commissioner, observing that much had been achieved towards the development of Chitral and that efforts would continue to be made towards the improvement of the quality of life for all.

The Diamond Jubilee marks 60 years of the Imamat of Mawlana Hazar Imam, as the Spiritual Leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.

On the first full day of his Diamond Jubilee visit to Pakistan, Mawlana Hazar Imam, accompanied by Princess Zahra, called on His Excellency President Mamnoon Hussain at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, Pakistan’s Presidential Palace.

Upon his arrival, Mawlana Hazar Imam and President Hussain observed a performance of the Pakistan National Anthem, before Hazar Imam was invited to review a Guard of Honour.

In their meeting that followed, His Excellency the President warmly welcomed Mawlana Hazar Imam and Princess Zahra, thanking them for their commitment to Pakistan which dates back to the time of Mawlana Sultan Mahomed Shah.

This evening, Mawlana Hazar Imam will meet with H.E. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Prime Minister of Pakistan who is hosting a banquet in honour of Hazar Imam.

Mawlana Hazar Imam met with the Prime Minister of Pakistan His Excellency Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at the Prime Minister’s House on 8 December 2017. The Prime Minister presented a special First Day Cover set of commemorative stamps celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam, and illustrating the contribution of AKDN agencies in the country.

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Mawlana Hazar Imam called on His Excellency Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at the Prime Minister’s House, accompanied by Princess Zahra, as well as senior Imamat representatives.

Upon arrival, the Prime Minister welcomed Mawlana Hazar Imam and Princess Zahra to Pakistan. Reiterating the Ismaili Imamat’s longstanding commitment to the country’s development goals, Mawlana Hazar Imam thanked the government and its partners for their support and collaboration towards the work of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).

The Prime Minister also presented a special First Day Cover set of commemorative stamps celebrating the Diamond Jubilee of Mawlana Hazar Imam, and illustrating the contribution of AKDN agencies in the country. The selection of six stamps, issued by the Government of Pakistan, specifically highlights AKDN’s achievements in the areas of education, health, environment, rural skills development and preservation of culture.

Later in the evening, Prime Minister Abbasi hosted Mawlana Hazar Imam, Princess Zahra and the Imamat delegation to a banquet at the Prime Minister’s House.

AKDN and Government of Gilgit-Baltistan to form Joint Consultancy Group

December 10, 2017 Pamir Times

GILGIT: Joint Consultancy Group to be formed in order to streamline and foster the cooperation between the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). His Highness Prince KArim Aga Khan proposed the formation of this joint working group during a meeting with Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Hafiz Hafeez Ur Rehman and other civil and military officials in Gilgit on Sunday.

Chief Minister apprised His Highness about various steps taken for maintaining peace and improving the livelihoods of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The meeting was also participated by Force Commander Northern Areas Major General Saqib Mahmood Malik , Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Dr Kazim Niaz and other officials.

Earlier the day, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan visited Yasin and Hunza and addressed huge gatherings of his followers.

Watch a detailed video report about the meeting

His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan visits Gilgit

Joint Consultancy Group to be formed in order to streamline and foster the cooperation between the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). His Highness Prince KArim Aga Khan proposed the formation of this joint working group during a meeting with Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Hafiz Hafeez Ur Rehman and other civil and military officials in Gilgit on Sunday. Chief Minister apprised His Highness about various steps taken for maintaining peace and improving the livelihoods of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The meeting was also participated by Force Commander Northern Areas Major General Saqib Mahmood Malik , Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Dr Kazim Niaz and other officials.

Earlier the day, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan visited Yasin and Hunza and addressed huge gatherings of his followers. Watch a detailed video report about the meeting With additional input from Abdul Rehman Bukhari

Last edited by Admin on Sun Dec 10, 2017 11:04 am, edited 1 time in total

2017-12-10 - Earlier today, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan visited Yasin and Hunza and addressed huge gatherings of his followers. Didar Mubarak to all Jamats from Yasin and Hunza area. As we get the photos, we will share with you here.

Joint Consultancy Group to be formed in order to streamline and foster the cooperation between the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). His Highness Prince KArim Aga Khan proposed the formation of this joint working group during a meeting with Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Hafiz Hafeez Ur Rehman and other civil and military officials in Gilgit on Sunday.

Chief Minister apprised His Highness about various steps taken for maintaining peace and improving the livelihoods of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The meeting was also participated by Force Commander Northern Areas Major General Saqib Mahmood Malik , Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan Dr Kazim Niaz and other officials.

Earlier the day, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan visited Yasin and Hunza and addressed huge gatherings of his followers.

Watch a detailed video report about the meeting
With additional input from Abdul Rehman Bukhari

CHITRAL/GILGIT: The spiritual leader and 49th imam of Shia Ismaili Muslims, Prince Karim Aga Khan, arrived in Chitral on Saturday and visited the places of congregation at Garam Chashma and Booni. He is expected to arrive in Gilgit-Baltistan today (Sunday).

Thousands of his followers performed the deedar ritual in Garam Chashma and Booni, which included special sermons by the Aga Khan on the importance of education for the betterment of humanity. The 81-year-old spiritual leader advised his followers to ensure sectarian harmony — the basis of peace and amity as espoused in Islamic teachings — and said that collaboration and cooperation were cornerstones of peace and development.

The Aga Khan said he had a special relationship with Chitral and its people, and was aware of their issues and problems. He said he would consider various proposals to lend his help.

He last visited Chitral in 2003. His visit this year marks the golden jubilee celebrations of his imamat. To join the celebrations, hundreds of thousands of his followers gathered in Chitral, and many more have arrived in Gilgit and Hunza, where he is expected to deliver a sermon today (Sunday).

Dressed in a warm woollen jacket, Deedar Karim, 70, a resident of Hussainabad in the Gojal valley of upper Hunza, arrived in Aliabad, Hunza, using special transport arrangements for the Ismaili community living in upper Hunza to perform his religious rites at the deedargah.

He shares that he is eager to view the Hazir Imam, and despite the cold weather (approaching minus 10 degrees) had readily made the 60km journey to Aliabad.

The area has been decorated ahead of the Aga Khan’s arrival, and the shops, homes and vehicles have been playing traditional anthems for several days. The Ismaili community of Gilgit-Baltistan have completed preparations for their spiritual leader’s arrival in GB. The mountains surrounding Gilgit, Hunza and Ghizer have been lit up with the words, “Welcome Hazir Imam, Didaar Mubarak”, painted in white. Amid reports of fluctuating voltage in Aliabad, Hunza and Ghizer because of the spike in electricity usage, residents of Asqardas, Samair and Shayar in Nagar district have voluntarily gifted their share of electricity for three days to Aliabad during the Aga Khan’s visit.

The deedar rituals will take place at two places set up in Aliabad in Hunza, and Yasin in Ghizer. On Sunday morning, the Aga Khan is expected to meet his followers at a special congregation in Yasin, and later in Aliabad.

Salman, a young boy participating in a cleanness drive, said everyone from his community had taken part in preparing for the celebrations. “This is a special occasion in our lives when our Hazir Imam gives us the opportunity of deedar,” he said.

All main roads and public places in Hunza and Ghizar have been decorated with welcoming messages. Volunteers of the community have been working round-the-clock to make the necessary arrangements prior to the imam’s arrival.

The Aga Khan will deliver special sermons at both the venues. It is compulsory to have an invitation card in order to be able to attend the deedar. The residents of villages surrounding the venues have already volunteered to host followers arriving from distant places.

Special programmes have been organised in Danyor, Raheemabad of Gilgit and Karimabad, Sost and other areas of Hunza to celebrate the arrival of the spiritual leader.

The spiritual leader is on a 13-day visit to Pakistan on the invitation of the government of Pakistan.

CHITRAL: Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual leader and 49th Imam of the Shia Ismaili community, visited on Saturday the Chitral district in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. He addressed his followers, who had gathered in thousands at Garam Chashma and Boni areas.

Prince Karim arrived in Islamabad on an official visit to the country on the invitation of Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Thursday. Minister for Foreign Affairs Khowaja Mohammad Asif, Minister for Capital Administration and Development Division (CADD) Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry and Mayor of Islamabad Sheikh Anser Aziz received him at the airport.
Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had officially invited the Aga Khan IV.

On Saturday, Prince Karim, who earlier held meetings with President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, was scheduled to reach the valley from Islamabad on a C-130 plane. However, he reached the valley three hours late on the helicopter of the Aga Khan Foundation due to the weather.

Special arrangements had been made at Garam Chashma and Boni to accommodate 60,000 and 80,000 people, respectively, who had gathered from different areas to see their 49th Imam.

Addressing his followers, Prince Karim said peace and law and order were necessary for progress of the region. “Islam is the religion of peace and love, and we should give priority to these aspects over all other things,” he added.

At the airport, the Chitral nazim briefed him on the area’s issues and highlighted the importance of establishing both air and road links between Chitral and Khorugh area of Tajikistan. He said these arrangements were very important for the progress of the area.

Prince Karim said Chitral held a special place in his heart and that he was well aware of the issues of the area. The prince later stayed the night at the valley.

GILGIT: Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, reached Gilgit-Baltistan on Sunday, where he addressed huge congregations of followers in Yasin valley of Ghizer district and Hunza Aliabad.

Floral gates had been erected to the Didargahs (the glimpsing places), which were well-carpeted.

About 100,000 followers were estimated to be in attendance in the Yasin valley congregation.

After performing the ritual of Didar in Yasin valley, Aga Khan arrived in Hunza Alibad at noon for performance of second Didar, where he delivered the sermon to a large congregation.

It was compulsory for each participant to have an invitation card in order to be able to attend the Didar.

The community is celebrating the golden jubilee of the imamat of Prince Karim Aga Khan.

During his sermons, Aga Khan, also known as Shah Karim al-Hussani, suggested his followers to remain loyal to Pakistan and play their role for religious harmony.

He said morality, education and peace were tools for success. He assured to play his role for development of remote areas of the country. “Agha Khan Development Network will continue its services for betterment of people in the region,” he said.

The Ismaili community’s spiritual leader is on a 13-day visit to Pakistan on the invitation of the government.

Rustam Ali, a resident of Yasin valley, declared Sunday the happiest day of his life when he had an opportunity to have Didar of his spiritual leader Aga Khan, the 49th imam of Ismaili Muslims, in his native village.

“It is our obligation to host all relatives and friends who come for Didar of our spiritual leader in our area,” he said. He said the local people had not only vacated their homes for outsiders but also set up tent villages to accommodate the guests.

Welcome camps had also been established at various places across Gilgit-Baltistan and banners displayed along the roads on arrival of the prince.

Personnel of GB Scouts, police, and Pakistan Rangers had been deployed at various places to ensure foolproof security for the events.

Earlier, Chief Minister Hafeezur Rehman, cabinet members and military and civil officials received the prince at the Gilgit airport.

Faizullah Faraq, the GB government spokesman, said the people had set an example of religious harmony on arrival of Prince Karim Aga Khan in the region.

He said people belonging to other sects had also displayed welcome banners and helped in the arrangements for Didar rituals. He said the government had helped set up Didargahs in Yasin and Ghizer.

Why are we so caught up in theological disputes and issues that are best left between a person and his or her God?

Yasser Latif Hamdani@theRealYLH

December 11, 2017

His Highness Aga Khan-IV, the hereditary imam of the Ismaili Aga Khani community, is on a visit to Pakistan. To my mind he represents the true spirit of Islam: progress, humanity, education, and economic progress as ethical imperatives and dictates of Islamic doctrine. As a religious leader can there be a greater contrast that what he is to the mad mullahs who have taken this nation hostage and who want to burn down things in the name of great faith. His Highness Aga Khan-IV founded Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi, which is by far the best hospital in Pakistan. His Aga Khan Development Network has done great work sustaining communities in need of help by providing much needed humanitarian assistance in remote areas of Pakistan and other countries in the world. This assistance is provided without regard to religion, sect or ethnicity.

The contributions of this industrious community to this land date back to the time that the present Aga Khan’s great great grandfather Aga Khan-I settled in Jhirk, the town on the bank of Indus in Sindh in the mid 19th century. Following in his footsteps came his followers from Gujarat. Among them was the father of a young merchant called Poonja Jinnah bhai. The significance of this should not be lost on those of us who are familiar with history. Aga Khan-III Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah, the grandfather of the present Aga Khan, was the founder-president of the All India Muslim League and the first chancellor of the Aligarh Muslim University. Without these institutions, Pakistan would not have been possible. Ever since the founding of this country, the Aga Khani Ismailis have played a significant role in health, education and business. The contributions made to this country by Aga Khani Ismailis like Sadruddin Hashwani are second to none.

Given this illustrious example, it remains an unanswered question as to why other Muslims are unable to follow suit. Why are we so caught up in theological disputes and issues that are best left between a person and his or her God? Sure there can be guidance by religious teachers but must this result in fatwas leading to violence and death? The Holy Quran says “there is no compulsion in religion” (Al Quran 2:256). A well known though widely disputed hadith of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) says “My Companions are like the stars in the sky. You will find the truth no matter from whom among them you receive hadiths. Difference of opinion of my Companions is a mercy for you.” (al-Ajluni, Kashfu’l-Khafa, I/64; al-Munawi, Faydu’l-Qadir, I/210-212). Difference of opinion therefore was encouraged in early Islamic tradition. It was through this difference of opinion on almost all matters under the sun that Islam ushered in a truly enlightened civilisation from 7th century to 15th century. In this civilisation not only was diversity of views respected but encouraged. Not only that but a key pillar of this civilisation was the idea of religious toleration long before these ideas took root in Europe. Jews and Christians lived and worshipped freely in Spain, the Middle East and the Ottoman lands under Muslim rule. The Indian subcontinent retained its overwhelming Hindu majority despite almost 800 years of unbroken Muslim rule.

In this modern age Islam can coexist with a secular state be it a Muslim majority state or where Muslims are a minority. Recognising this is key to progress in the Muslim world

Muslims of the 21st Century ought to be the inheritors of these glorious pluralistic traditions of Islam. Instead we have chosen to present ossified dogma in form of dated interpretations of long dead jurists, orthodoxy and narrow-mindedness as the real face of Islam. In Pakistan by making the legislative process subservient to the repugnancy clause, which in turn is based on these dated interpretations of a great and progressive faith, we have done untold harm to the process of Ijtehad, which is the inherent and inbuilt mechanism of renewal of Islam as a live religion. By the same token our so-called religious leaders have conflated the idea of Jihad or struggle to Qital or killing and have now made the word synonymous with violence and mayhem. Instead of being struggle for justice and general good, Jihad now is taken to mean aggressive holy war. It goes without saying that many Muslim communities on the periphery of the mainstream question this idea.

There is great diversity in Islamic thought and discourse. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, the great Muslim modernist and the intellectual forerunner of the Two Nation Theory and the Pakistan Movement, was also a great theologian. Some of what he expounded would today be considered most controversial. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s most prolific critic was another Muslim modernist Jamaludin Afghani who considered Sir Syed to be a British stooge. Sir Syed was a rationalist to the core going as far as to question the mode of prayer. His followers from the Aligarh school tried to reconcile modernity with their Muslim identity. The Indo-Muslim Nationalism that was to become the basis of the Pakistan Movement was born out of these efforts. The newly educated class of Muslims produced here wanted jobs and a share of economic resources. Their concerns were worldly and secular as opposed to being theological or religious.

Meanwhile the Ulema who opposed them did so for multiple reasons. There were those like Maulana Maududi who saw the people demanding Pakistan to be too irreligious and modern and therefore unfit to lead Muslims. Then there were those in the Majlis-e-Ahrar who attacked the Muslim League because it was open to Ahmadis, Aga Khanis and Shias. However there were also those like Maulana Hussain Ahmad Madani of Deoband who had their own ideas of coexistence and pluralism of a United India emanating out of the prophetic tradition and Mesaq-e-Medina. LUMS Professor and historian Ali Usman Qasmi has collaborated with Megan Eaton Robb to bring out a fine volume called “Muslims against the Muslim League” to document the Muslim critics of the Pakistan idea. It is a fascinating read even for those people like me who intellectually support the creation of Pakistan and the Muslim League’s politics from 1940-1947. This book deserves a detailed review, which I intend to undertake in a future article, because it shows that the Muslim community has never been a monolith. Nor can it can be divided into good Muslims and bad Muslims because ultimately this community like any other is made of individuals with their unique ideas about religion, politics and life.

Instead the Muslims need to celebrate diversity of views in the global community on everything from politics to theology. The surest way of doing this is to separate religion from state. This is what Mr Jinnah’s famous 11 August speech was about. Islam in this modern age can coexist with a secular state be it a Muslim majority state or where Muslims are in a minority. Recognising this is key to progress in the Muslim world.

On 10 December, Mawlana Hazar Imam arrived in Gilgit in continuation of his Diamond Jubilee visit to Pakistan.

A delegation comprising of government officials including Hafiz Hafeez-ur-Rehman, Chief Minister, Gilgit-Baltistan, Major General Saqib Mahmood Malik, Force Commander Northern Areas, Dr Kazim Niaz, Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan, and others along with community leaders gathered to receive him at the Gilgit airport.

On the occasion, the delegation applauded the significant role and longstanding commitment of Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in the development of Gilgit-Baltistan. Over several decades, the AKDN has invested in the areas of education and health as well as emergency and disaster preparedness, infrastructure and rural development in Gilgit-Baltistan, serving communities of all backgrounds.

Mawlana Hazar Imam thanked the delegation, remarking much had been achieved towards the development of Gilgit-Baltistan and efforts would continue to be made towards the improvement of the quality of life for all in close collaboration with the government.

"Prince Kareem Aga Khan visiting after 17 years but I want him to visit annually," says Murad

Karachi

BY INP

KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah while reviewing the security arrangements for the visit of His Highness Price Kareem Aga Khan has said that he was coming to Karachi after 17 years, therefore he must be received in a manner befitting enough to encourage him to visit at least once in a year.

Addressing the participants, the chief minister said that the purpose of inviting all of them was to remind them of their duties. “I want proper cleanliness in the city, uninterrupted power supply, proper security arrangements, traffic arrangement and the removal of unauthorized establishments such as patharas, encroachment under flyovers etc. particularly in the areas where His Highness would visit,” he said.

The IG police and deputy DG rangers briefed the chief minister about their security plan to escort His Highness and keep vigilance before and after his visit. The officers from civic agencies also assured that they would make proper arrangements for water supply, removal of debris, removal of filth and garbage, cleanliness of nalas and the repair of roads leading to jamaatkhanas.

The chief minister personally visited the Ismaili jamaatkhana located on Khayaban-e-Romi at Clifton Block-7, near Bath Island and discussed the security and other matters with the management.

Afterwards, he along with all the participants of the meeting went to Britto Road Garden to visit another Ismaili Jamaatkhana. He directed the IG police to deploy policemen on the roofs of nearby buildings. “Garden area is a densely populated area, therefore, deploy efficient traffic cops here,” he said and also directed him to remove the vehicles parked outside the showroom. “This is a serious issue and I have been giving directives time and again but they are implemented for the shortest period and this is unacceptable,” he said.

The chief minister concluded that he would visit the areas alone to see the implementation of his directives.

The chief minister also directed the IG and Karachi commissioner to make necessary security arrangements for the followers of Prince Aga Kareem who would come from all over Pakistan to Karachi

KARACHI: The spiritual leader of Shia Imami Ismaili community Prince Karim Aga Khan arrived in the city on Thursday and was received at the airport by both the Sindh Governor Mohammad Zubair and Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.

Sindh Information Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Inspector General of Sindh Police AD Khowaja, and other high-ups of provincial government were also present on the occasion. Sindh governor expressed his delight and welcomed the arrival of the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community. Zubair said that Aga Khan Foundation is rendering important services in the socio-economic sectors of the country. He also lauded the services of the Ismaili community in education and health sectors.

He said the arrival of Prince Karim Aga Khan in the city, soon after the visit of Karachi by the spiritual leader of Dawoodi Bohra community has proved that the law and order situation of the provincial capital has improved. On the occasion, Sindh chief minister also discussed matters of mutual interest with the visiting dignitary.

A statement issued by the spokesman for Sindh Governor House said that Prince Karim Aga Khan was taken to Governor House from the Karachi Airport. The Sindh governor hosted a dinner reception in honour of the visiting dignitary, which was attended by prominent people from different walks of life and members of the Ismaili community.

The dignitary is expected to stay in the city till 19 December, 2017 during which among other engagements, he will address members of the Ismaili community at different Jamaat Khanas. Aga Khan has been on the visit to Pakistan since 07 December, 2017.

Meanwhile, Inspector General Sindh AD Khowaja reviewed the overall law and order situation of the province including security of Prince Karim Aga Khan in a meeting held at Central Police Office on Thursday. The meeting was attended by Additional Inspector General of Special Branch , DIG Operations, zonal DIGs, SSP Special Branch and others senior police officers.

Khowaja directed participants to ensure security of citizen’s life and property and implementation of the contingency plans prepared for the security of Prince Karim Agha Khan in letter and spirit. He directed DIGP Traffic to ensure smooth flow of traffic during the busy hours. The IG also ordered to strictly enforce the timings of movement of heavy traffic in the city.

On arriving in Karachi, Mawlana Hazar Imam was warmly welcomed by Muhammad Zubair, Governor of Sindh, and Syed Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh. Key government officials, community leaders and Junior Guides and Shaheen Scouts from the Sindh Jamat were also present to welcome Hazar Imam.

Upon his arrival, Hazar Imam held a meeting with government officials at the airport’s lounge where they discussed topics of mutual interest.

Later that evening, Muhammad Zubair hosted a dinner in honour of Hazar Imam and his delegation at the Governor’s House, where Syed Murad Ali Shah and other dignitaries were also present.

KARACHI: Prince Karim Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, was accorded a warm reception on his arrival here on Thursday.

The Aga Khan was received at Quaid-i-Azam International Airport by Sindh Governor Muhammad Zubair and Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.

The governor and the chief minister later held a meeting with him at the airport’s lounge and exchanged views with him on the topics of mutual interest. Provincial Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Chief Secretary Rizwan Memon and Inspector General of Sindh Police A.D. Khowaja were present on the occasion.

Later in the day, Governor Zubair hosted a dinner in honour of the Aga Khan at the Governor’s House which was attended by notables of the city and members of the Ismaili community.

The Aga Khan would be the chief minister’s guest at the CM House on Saturday. The spiritual leader of the Ismaili community arrived in Islamabad on Dec 7 on a 13-day official visit to the country on the invitation of President Mamnoon Hussain.